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Hst Calculator Ontario 2015

Reviewed by Calculator Editorial Team

This HST calculator helps you determine the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) for purchases made in Ontario during 2015. The calculator uses the official 2015 HST rates to provide accurate results for your transactions.

What is Ontario HST?

The Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) is a combined sales tax and goods and services tax that applies to most purchases in Ontario. It replaced the previous system of separate provincial sales tax and federal goods and services tax (GST).

HST is charged on most goods and services sold in Ontario, with some exceptions. The tax rate varies depending on the type of product or service being purchased.

Note: HST rates changed over time. This calculator uses the 2015 rates which were in effect from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2015.

Ontario HST Rates in 2015

In 2015, Ontario had the following HST rates:

  • Standard rate: 13%
  • Zero-rated goods and services: 0%
  • Exempt goods and services: 0%

The standard rate of 13% applied to most goods and services sold in Ontario. Some items were zero-rated (taxed at 0%) or exempt from HST entirely.

Formula used:

HST Amount = (Price of Item × HST Rate)

Total Price = Price of Item + HST Amount

How to Calculate HST

Calculating HST is straightforward. You need to know:

  1. The price of the item before tax
  2. The applicable HST rate for that item

Once you have these two pieces of information, you can calculate the HST amount and the total price including tax.

Step-by-Step Calculation

  1. Determine the price of the item before tax
  2. Identify the applicable HST rate (13% for most items in 2015)
  3. Multiply the item price by the HST rate to get the HST amount
  4. Add the HST amount to the original item price to get the total price

Remember: Some items may have different HST rates or be exempt from HST. Always check the specific rate for the item you're purchasing.

Example Calculation

Let's look at an example to see how HST calculation works in practice.

Example Scenario

You purchase a laptop priced at $1,200 before tax. The applicable HST rate is 13%.

Calculation Steps

  1. Item price: $1,200
  2. HST rate: 13% or 0.13
  3. HST amount = $1,200 × 0.13 = $156
  4. Total price = $1,200 + $156 = $1,356

The total price you would pay for the laptop, including HST, would be $1,356.

Worked Example:

Price before tax: $1,200

HST (13%): $156

Total price: $1,356

FAQ

What is the current HST rate in Ontario?
The current HST rate in Ontario is 13%. However, this calculator specifically uses the 2015 rates which were 13% for most items.
Are there any items that are exempt from HST?
Yes, some basic foodstuffs, prescription drugs, and medical devices are exempt from HST in Ontario.
How do I know what HST rate applies to my purchase?
Most items use the standard 13% HST rate. Some items may have different rates or be exempt. Check the specific rate for the item you're purchasing.
Is HST the same as GST?
No, HST is a combination of the provincial sales tax and the federal goods and services tax (GST). It was introduced to simplify the tax system in Ontario.
Can I calculate HST manually or do I need a calculator?
You can calculate HST manually using basic multiplication and addition, but using a calculator like this one can help ensure accuracy, especially with complex transactions.